Beijing World Humanoid Robot Games showcase record-breaking speeds

The second World Humanoid Robot Games, held in Beijing from August 22 to 26, 2026, showcased significant advancements and technical challenges in humanoid robotics. The event featured over 2,000 robots from 666 teams representing 16 countries, competing in 51 disciplines including athletics, football, martial arts, and practical tasks for domestic and industrial use.

In a major milestone for robotic speed, the humanoid Tiangong Ultra, developed by X-Humanoid, set a new record for the 100-meter sprint with a time of 8.64 seconds, surpassing Usain Bolt’s human record of 9.58 seconds. Other notable achievements included record-breaking performances in the 400-meter and 1,500-meter races, as well as high jump competitions.

Despite these successes, the games highlighted ongoing limitations in robotic control and safety. Many high-speed robots struggled to decelerate, resulting in collisions with protective barriers, mechanical failures, and instances of robots catching fire. The competition also emphasized the transition of robotics from laboratory settings to real-world applications in hospitality, emergency services, and manufacturing.